Roasted Pears with Almond Crunch

The heady flavor of almond is threaded through this lovely dessert. The combination of Amaretto and warm pear juices creates a fragrant syrup, and a crisp, nutty topping adds welcome contrast to the tender roasted fruit.

Preparation

Make almond crunch:
Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment.

Whisk together egg white, sugar, and salt until sugar is completely dissolved, then add almonds, stirring until coated. Spread mixture in a very thin layer on parchment-lined sheet, spreading almonds away from center of pan.

Bake until deep golden, 15 to 25 minutes. Cool on baking sheet on a rack, then break into pieces.

Roast pears:
Increase oven temperature to 425°F.

Halve pears lengthwise and core with melon-ball cutter or a paring knife.